It’s easy to underestimate the critical role of providing our bodies the rest and care they require in our modern culture, when the pressures of job, personal commitments, and the quest of a balanced life frequently intersect. Neglecting our well-being may lead to increased stress, which can have a negative impact on our overall health. Chronic stress has a particularly negative impact on heart health. According to research, stress-related inflammation can lead to a variety of risk factors for our cardiovascular systems, including high blood pressure, low levels of good cholesterol, and an increased susceptibility to obesity.
It is critical to recognise the importance of de-stressing and taking precautions to safeguard our hearts. We can reduce the detrimental effects of stress and increase heart health by adding restorative practises into our everyday life. Dr. Abhijit Borse, Interventional Cardiologist at the Asian Heart Institute in Mumbai, discusses several critical methods to consider:
Making self-care a priority
Self-care should be an unavoidable part of your daily routine. Make time to engage in things that offer you joy, relaxation, and peace of mind. Take up a hobby, spend time outside, practise mindfulness or meditation, or simply relax with a good book. Remember that self-care is not selfish; it is an important investment in your overall well-being.
Maintaining wholesome connections
Stress levels may be considerably reduced by developing healthy relationships with loved ones and surrounding oneself with a support network. A healthy heart is a result of the emotional support, inspiration, and feeling of community that strong social ties bring.
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Using relaxation methods to reduce stress
Investigate numerous stress reduction strategies to see which one suits you the most. Regular physical activity like walking or running, yoga, gradual muscle relaxation, and deep breathing techniques can all help lower stress levels and foster a peaceful frame of mind.
Getting enough sleep
The importance of sleep in healing the body and mind cannot be overstated. Create a calm setting for sleeping, avoid using screens just before bed, and put a priority on maintaining a regular sleep pattern. Good sleep hygiene promotes not just stress reduction but also general heart health.
Choosing a heart-healthy way of life
Reduce the risk factors for heart disease by incorporating heart-healthy behaviours into your lifestyle. Choose a well-balanced diet low in processed foods, sugar, and excessive salt while being rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Participate regularly in a physical activity you like, like dancing, cycling, or swimming. Your heart health can be significantly improved by even modest activity.
